Indian Navy Launches Eighth MCA Barge, LSAM 11

On February 14, 2025, the Indian Navy marked a significant milestone by launching its eighth Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge, LSAM 11 (Yard 79). This key event took place in Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra, at the launch site of M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, Visakhapatnam. The ceremony was presided over by Commodore N Gopinath, AGM (PL) at Naval Dockyard Mumbai. This addition to the Indian Navy’s fleet is set to strengthen its logistical support and operational capabilities.

What Is the Role of LSAM 11 in the Navy’s Operations?

The LSAM 11 is one of eight MCA Barges designed to play a critical role in supporting the Navy’s operational needs. These barges are primarily used to transport, embark, and disembark ammunition and other critical supplies to Indian Navy platforms, especially at outer harbors and jetties. This enables the Navy to maintain smooth and effective logistical operations during maritime missions.

This launch follows the successful deployment of seven other MCA barges, further enhancing the Navy’s ability to manage and support naval operations across various fronts. The LSAM 11 ensures better mobility and supply management for India’s maritime forces, playing a vital role in strengthening national security.

How Was the LSAM 11 Designed and Built?

The MCA Barges, including LSAM 11, were constructed under a contract signed between the Ministry of Defence and M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, an MSME shipyard based in Visakhapatnam. The contract for building these eight barges was finalized on February 19, 2021. The barges have been indigenously designed in collaboration with an Indian ship designing firm and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

To ensure the sea-worthiness of these vessels, model testing was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam. The use of domestic resources and expertise not only strengthens the Navy’s capabilities but also aligns with India’s goals of becoming more self-reliant in defense production.

What Does LSAM 11’s Launch Mean for India’s ‘Make in India’ Initiative?

The launch of LSAM 11 aligns with the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. By relying on local firms and indigenous design, the Navy is promoting domestic capabilities in defense production. The success of the LSAM project is a testament to India’s growing strength in producing defense equipment indigenously, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.

This move is not only beneficial for the Navy but also supports India’s broader industrial growth. By engaging local enterprises, India is fostering a self-sustaining defense ecosystem that can cater to future maritime and national security needs.

The successful launch of LSAM 11 is a significant step towards bolstering the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities. The addition of such strategic assets enhances India’s defense infrastructure, making it more robust and capable of facing future challenges in the maritime domain.

Key Highlights of LSAM 11 Launch